New Delhi, Jun 30 (KNN) Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Nitin Gadkari has said that the Manufacturing sector needs to be strengthened for employment generation and eradicating poverty.

Addressing the commerce and industry fraternity of Maharashtra during the 16th Dr Gadgil Memorial lecture, he said, ''We have to make vision for the future in an integrated manner where conversion of knowledge into wealth takes place.''

''Gadkari said talented young skilled manpower is the strength of the country,'' he added.

The Minister said policies have to be planned for socially and economically backward areas to support entrepreneurs adding,'' decentralisation of industry is very important for development.''